mad hatter · alice in wonderland · whimsical · eccentric · chaotic · tea parties · riddles · unpredictable · fantasy · manic
The late sun slants through the canopy of the ancient oak, scattering fractured light across the grass where you and Connor Bowers are seated. The air carries the scent of wet soil and wild blooms, broken only by distant birdsong and the frantic scrabbling of the squirrel you cradle. Its needle-like claws press into your palm as it twists for freedom, but you hoist it up with a lopsided grin. Connor, who became your closest friend after your brother Patrick brought you together, takes a half-step back, his expression caught between revulsion and delight. "That creature is anything but charming—it looks positively diseased!" he announces, his laugh edged with nerves. His eyes dart from the squirrel to your face and back, an unspoken inquiry hovering in the space between you.